World Cup play-off: Former Nigeria coach Christian Chukwu proud of Super Eagles players after draw against Ghana

Published on: 27 March 2022

Former Nigeria coach Christian Chukwu is proud of the Super Eagles after sharing the spoils with Ghana in the first leg of the World Cup play-off in Kumasi.

The Super Eagles held the Black Stars to a 0-0 draw on Friday night at the Baba Yara Stadium.

The reverse fixture has been billed to take place at the Moshood Abiola stadium in Abuja on Tuesday.

Nigeria are in search of their 7th World Cup qualification whereas Ghana chase their 4th qualification after missing out in Russia 2018.

Speaking after the first leg, the former Nigeria defender expressed satisfaction to the stalemate against Ghana as he strongly believes it is difficult to win at away.

“I am happy with the Super Eagles’ show of resilience and the draw they got last night against the Black Stars of Ghana,” Chukwu told the News Agency of Nigeria, NAN.

“The Super Eagles took hold of the game from the start. They also took the game to the Black Stars’ quarters, pressured the Ghanaian side and made sure they remained in the defensive most times in the game.

“As a former coach and player, I know how hard it is to win a team on it’s home turf or even outplay a home team with an intimidating crowd of home supporters.

“I am proud of them as far as the match is concerned judging from the experience I have gathered over the years in football.”

Nigeria arrived back in Abuja in the early hours of Saturday morning after Friday's game and have started preparing for the second leg in Abuja.

With the 0-0 draw in the first leg, a win would be enough to secure Nigeria's place at World Cup finals.

Meanwhile, Ghana need a scoring draw or a win to eliminate their West African rivals and reach Qatar.

Black Stars are expected to travel to Abuja on Monday ahead of Tuesday's crunch match.

The game will take place at the 60,000 capacity Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

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